Four stunning spots you’ll want to visit with your family!

This summer, we did a short getaway and visited four locations that were absolutely breath-taking. We were shocked at these spots because we had lived in Cottage Grove and Woodbury for about a year and a half at the beginning of our marriage. Somehow, we missed that these locations were right underneath our noses. I’ve been saving writing about them because they were the kinds of spots that just take your breath away…in the summer, yet I can’t even begin to fathom how much better they are in the fall foliage. I’m imagining they would be perfect day spot trips for the fall to catch the ever changing fall colors and beauty of the season. So, here’s those four spots you’ll want to check out in the coming weeks!

First, we stopped at Schaar’s Bluff Trail in Spring Lake Park Reserve in Hastings. Not only do they have epic views, great hiking, ultimate picnic locations, loads of biking trails, but they also have bison here! I loved that this spot offered views of the Mississippi River, some wooded areas, and prairie. Spots like this with multiple terrains are my favorite as hiking or biking in it keeps on changing.

Second, we stopped at Vermillion Falls Park in Hastings. I’d been here one other time, but never with the kids. A giant waterfall right in the heart of the city that was absolutely roaring after the rains of the summer was a sight to see for all. It was nice to have viewpoints all around the waterfall to see the rushing waters.

Our third stop was Carpenter Nature Center in Hastings. If you have kids, this is a definite visit as there was so much for kids to do here. Starting with the nature center, there were animals, programs, and learning experiences. Outside, there were many lookouts and trails. Another favorite for the kids was a trail with miscellaneous objects hidden, such as a fork. The kids thought this was a hoot and added an element of wonder and surprise to a little hike. At this spot, there was a wide variety of terrain again, which made for a fun experience for all of us. One of the lookouts was over the river and we could see a bald eagle perched in a tree close by. Another deck look out was high up in the trees in a forest, which I bet is completely enchanting with fall leaves floating down around you.

Last, we stopped at Camel’s Hump Park in Cottage Grove. Hidden away, you would never know there was a haven of beauty nestled among the trees high up on the hills. Based off the parking lot, you wouldn’t think much of this park. Yet, as we began the short walk through Camel’s Hump Park, we were struck by beauty again and again. From this spot, you can see for miles, both natural landscapes and city landscapes in the distance. I loved the concrete walls to sit on and look out at the beauty. My kids were absolutely tickled pink to find a swing dangling from a tree near the end of the path. They couldn’t believe they could swing right into this view. This is definitely an easy walk and a very doable path with kids if your kids aren’t into walking much.

Over the years, we’ve made a tradition of certain places being spots that we visit in every season. There’s some locations in nature that just get more and more beautiful each season. It’s also fun to see how the elements of the spot change with the weather…snow, rain, falling leaves, buds, or greenery. These four locations could be some of those spots for your family as I bet each location is awe-inspiring throughout the year. If you visit any of these spots, make sure to stop at Schoolhouse Scoop for ice cream in Hastings. A beautiful spot to stay nearby is showcased in this blog here. Be sure to take some pictures of these spots and send them my way if you visit! I’d love to marvel at the magnificent views you get!

Until my next adventure,

Allie